Meet Troy, our future Zookeeper.

His love of animals and insects came at a very young age. 

When Troy was a preschool-age child, he had a pet bee named Endrid.  “He always had a pet bee or a jumping spider crawling on him,” said Dawn, Troy’s mother.  “He’s also always been interested in animal and dinosaur books and documentaries.” 

To see Troy interact with animals is a great experience (see his Akron Zoo experience video).  He is gentle, seems to understand what they need and is intent on making them get the respect they need to thrive.  While Troy was at a recent behind-the-scenes Zookeeper for a Day at Akron Zoo, he observed the animals and listened intently as the zookeepers explained the animals, their climate, likes and dislikes, and what their typical day consisted of.  He even knew a lot of facts about particular animals when challenged with questions by the Akron Zoo staff.  While at the Akron Zoo, he got to see and feed his favorite animal – the Red Panda!  His mother also said he loves dogs and cats, but Red Panda is his favorite.  

When Troy is not in school, he likes to spend time in his clubhouse.  A clubhouse that he made himself with scrap lumber.  He might even enjoy a cup of Ramen – his favorite food – while he spends time reading, watching YouTube videos, and no doubt, studying up on animals and insects.  When asked about his favorite movies, he said all Godzilla movies.  Godzilla!  Might be that he’s studying the ways Godzilla lives out of his natural habitat, or maybe it’s cinematography.  Troy also likes listening to music and playing and hanging out with his friends…and riding his bike.  He also likes to swim and fish during the summer months when he is off school.  “We like to spend time outside as a family,” his mother added.  When Troy was younger, he taught himself which spiders and snakes are poisonous, so he knew which ones to not mess with. 

These career experiences are so important.  They are not just a good time for the kids, but it helps inspire kids from underrepresented backgrounds to think about STEM or animal sciences.  “By giving kids like Troy a glimpse into their dream careers, we’re showing them that their passions are valid, and their futures are full of possibility,” said Angela Perisic, CEO, United Way of Greater Stark County. 

“Troy also has a passion for science and space,” his mother added.  Maybe one day he will be a zookeeper that helps more animals go into space.  Who knows.  One thing for sure is that Troy will be a great zookeeper and will work hard to care for all the creatures at the zoo.